St Kilda AFLW coach Nick Dal Santo to step down

Nick Dal Santo has announced he will step down as the St Kilda AFLW coach following a winless season. After leading the team to its first finals appearance last year, the program has struggled this season, facing heavy losses and a significant decline in performance. Dal Santo will coach one final game this weekend before departing.

The club has committed to a wholesale independent review of the AFLW program. CEO Carl Dilena praised Dal Santo’s leadership and his role in shaping the team’s formative years.

Looking toward the future, the St Kilda football program faces significant pressure. Analysts have warned that the club must perform well by 2027 to avoid a long-term decline. Key figures including coach Ross Lyon and player Mac Andrew Wanganeen-Milera are approaching contract expirations, making the club’s ability to reach finals a critical factor in retaining core personnel.